Logistics 4.0 adoption in emerging economies: an economic complexity perspective

• The study identifies internal and external drivers for L4.0. • Regional infrastructure and education are key for L4.0 adoption. • Multi-sector alliances are vital for research and policy support to L4.0 adoption. • L4.0 drives economic complexity through enhanced competitiveness and sustainability. A dynamic and diversified economy can facilitate the adoption of Logistics 4.0 (L4.0). However, limited research exists on how economic complexity influences L4.0, either by facilitating or hindering its development. Therefore, this study investigates the drivers and barriers to the adoption of L4.0 by Logistics Service Providers (LSP), using an economic complexity approach. We conducted semi-structured interviews with sixteen logistics experts operating within the context of an emerging economy (Brazil). Content analysis was applied to examine the data collected. The results reveal that the adoption of L4.0 is influenced by internal factors (i.e., cost reduction, productivity, quality, and increased competitiveness) and external pressures such as customer demands, regulations, competition, and technological advancements. Key barriers include resistance to change, limited technical skills, high technology costs, and inadequate infrastructure. The interdependence between technological transition and economic complexity underscores the need for context-sensitive strategies that align logistics practices with regional economic conditions. This study contributes to both theory and practice by offering guidance for managers and governments on the relationship between L4.0 and economic complexity, how to leverage its benefits, and how to overcome the challenges inherent in the process.